15 Of Some Of The Best Dog Breeds For Families

There are hundreds of different breeds of dogs, and each of these breeds have specific traits about them that people find desirable.

When it comes to choosing your family pet, you want a dog that will gel well with your family dynamic in this article we will dive in and let you know some of the best dog breeds for families.

And if you are looking on what to feed your dog and the best nutrition possible then check out our products here

The Domestic Dog

Dogs and humans have been in cahoots for thousands of years, scientists have found that we might have been domesticating dogs for as long as 40,000 years.

This has been an ongoing process with dogs being bred for a whole manor of purposes.

In the beginning it was probably more of a guard dog and protector, to keep unwanted predators at bay, or even to help track down prey.

In more recent years we have bred specific desirable traits into our pet dogs to create animals that have high trainability, are docile and relaxed, dogs for working farms or even dogs that do not shed so they are less likely to bring out allergic reactions in their human companions.

Dog Breeds for Families

There are a few dog breeds that are specifically said to be great for a typical family.

This is a family with a mix of adults and children who are looking for a fun, docile companion that will be safe around the younger family members.

Typically, families are looking to have a pet that they can trust with their children which is calm in high energy situations.

A dog that can cope with the noises and excitement of a busy household but that does not mind being left alone for short periods and loves to play.

Remember when choosing a new dog, you should always consider more than just the breed. Every dog is different, their history, their socialisation levels and their likes and dislikes.

Some individual dogs that might be great for families on paper might just not suit yours so always read up on the breed.

1) Labrador

Labradors are perfect for families as a breed. They are considered a non-aggressive breed and are generally calm in all situations.

They are kind and enjoy being part of a family unit, as well as having a lot of fun during playtime too.

They are a fairly intelligent dog breed but do not require as much stimulus as other breeds which is great as they can relax and live day to day with whatever comes up.

They are a very friendly breed and usually get on well with other dogs and humans that are not part of their pack which is a critical feature when it comes to children’s friends, parties and events.

Labradors are healthy when kept active and given the right diet, however they are prone to weight gain and obesity so always be careful to keep a close eye on this and not allow them too many table scraps.

2) Golden Retriever

Retrievers are generally considered to be a happy-go-lucky friendly dog breed.

They are most at peace when receiving love and affection which is a trait that makes them the perfect family dog.

They are very laid back which makes them a great companion for young children and are also loyal which, when trained correctly can lead to the strongest of family bonds.

Retrievers are also extremely trainable which is great when it comes to a busy household that does not have hundreds of hours to spend on dog obedience training.

Golden Retrievers are not happy being left alone all day and are prone to shed a lot, so if you want a dog that does not require a lot of time or energy, they are not the one for you.

3) Irish Setter

The Irish Setter makes for a great family dog due to its absolute love of companionship.

They are an extremely friendly dog breed that generally love to play and interact with people of all ages.

They thrive on affection, adventure and games which makes them an excellent companion for active children.

Setters are active dogs. They can get stressed if they don’t get enough exercise or playtime so it is important to choose an Irish Setter only if you can provide the active family lifestyle they need.

4) Beagle

Beagles make a great family dog and are smaller than the other breeds on our list which means they can be housed in apartments without gardens as long as they get some good daily walks.

Beagles are bred to live and work in packs, so their personality traits often mirror this in a family setting which is what makes them good family pets.

They are happy, outgoing dogs that thrive on training and interaction.

Beagles need training in order to function well as family pets, if they don’t get enough enrichment and training, they can have some behavioural problems – as with all dog breeds.

5) Cavalier King Charles Spaniel

Combine the portable size of a toy breed with the verve of a sporting one and you get these adorable and lively companions.

These sweet, silky-furred friends get along with just about everybody they come across, including kids and other dogs.

The flowing locks and heart-melting expression are just a bonus.

6) French Bulldog

No backyard, no problem — city dwellers adore these quiet and low-maintenance pups.

Their trademark "bat ears" and smaller stature physically distinguish them from their larger bulldog cousins.

The prototypical Frenchie exhibits an alert, playful attitude combined with easygoing adaptability.

7) Poodle

Poodles are the ultimate custom dog. They come in three sizes (standard, miniature and toy) and three colors (black, white and apricot).

While some wrongly think they're uppity pooches, underneath that fluffy hypoallergenic coat is a bonafide brainiac bred for activity.

The flamboyant show hairdo (derived from their original purpose as hunting dogs) isn't a necessity either. Most owners opt for the simple "sporting clip" that requires far less maintenance.

8) Cavoodle 

Cavoodles make fantastic family pets due to their gentle, loyal, even-tempered, and people-orientated nature.

They generally get along well with the elderly, children, and other pets, making them a great family companion.

9) Vizsla

If you love a sporting dog but want something a little more unique than the standard Lab or Golden Retriever, consider the Vizla.

It's a born-and-bred pointer that thrives on thorough exercise but has a sensitive, affectionate nature when not it's not "working." This is a dog that will form a close-knit bond; "alone time" is not a Vizla's vocabulary. 

10) Pug

Just like humans, pugs love eating and sleeping.

You have to keep them to a regular diet (no table scraps allowed!) and make sure they get plenty of exercise, but look no further if you want a couch companion to snuggle up and watch movies with.

At just 15 pounds or so, this breed doesn't need a huge backyard, but appreciates a play session with the kiddos.

11) Jack Russel

This active pooch is a perfect family dog, especially if you have kids over the age of three or four.

They have an adventurous nature so it's best if you have an adventurous side too. Jack Russells do tend to get bored, so it's best if they have a family that can really give them the time of day 

12) Collie

Collies rank among the smartest dog breeds, and if you ever watched Lassie, then you know why.

A collie's loyalty is unparalleled and they totally adore children. Worried about all of that fur? Collies come in both "rough" and "smooth" varieties for the more grooming-adverse.

13) Miniature Schnauzers

Miniature Schnauzers are highly intelligent and usually easy to train, but their stubborn streak requires a firm and patient hand.

Due to their playful nature, these breeds make great family pets and usually get on well with children (but always keep dogs under close supervision around young children).

14) Staffordshire Terriers

When choosing your family pet think about what you want out of a dog and what the dog can get out of your family.

Take a holistic approach and consider all the options before embarking on your new furry family member.

What to feed your dog?

Food and nutrition is so important for your dog and choosing the right food is critical for their health and longevity

And you can check out our products, recipes and meal plans here